Giving a nod to the oral-systemic link, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois (BCBSIL) has launched a new service to help its members improve their overall health by improving their oral health.
BlueCare Dental Connection is an integrated medical-dental program that combs through members' medical and dental data and contacts those at risk for health conditions complicated by dental disease, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and pregnancy via direct mailing of educational material. The service also aims to catch patients early who are at a high risk for dental caries or periodontal disease.
"This approach is designed to help users optimize their overall health by helping them make better decisions about their oral health," claims a company press release. "The goal of the BlueCare Dental Connection program ... is to help members identify potential opportunities for dental health intervention and prevention and realize the benefits to their overall health."
Member can also use the Dental Wellness Centre -- a component of the program -- to:
- Ask questions from licensed dentists and get answers within 24 hours.
- Find a network dentist with the "Provider Finder" feature.
- Compare price range for dental procedures in a certain location by using the "Dental Cost Advisor."
- Access information on topics such as pediatric care, prevention, and dental treatments etc.
 |
"This program is both critical to maintaining our members' overall health and assisting us in reducing increasing health care costs," said Dr. Timothy Custer, dental director for Dental Network of America, in a press release. "By combining online support tools with a coordinated outreach component, BCBSIL can target members most in need of education and intervention."
BlueCare Dental Connection is available free of cost to BCBSIL members. The service is also being offered by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma.
Copyright © 2008 DrBicuspid.com
